Genome report: First reference genome of Vaccinium floribundum Kunth, an emblematic Andean species.

Vaccinium floribundum Kunth, known as "mortiño," is an endemic shrub species of the Andean region adapted to harsh conditions in high-altitude ecosystems. It plays an important ecological role as a pioneer species in the aftermath of deforestation and human-induced fires within paramo ecosystems, emphasizing its conservation value. While previous studies have offered insights into the genetic diversity of mortiño, comprehensive genomic studies are still missing to fully understand the unique adaptations of this species and its population status, highlighting the importance of generating a reference genome for this plant.

Diversity and Agronomic Performance of Germplasm in European and Andean Environments.

The introduction of (Andean lupin) in Europe will provide a new source of protein and oil for plant-based diets and biomass for bio-based products, while contributing to the improvement of marginal soils. This study evaluates for the first time the phenotypic variability of a large panel of accessions both in their native environment and over two cropping conditions in Europe (winter crop in the Mediterranean region and summer crop in North-Central Europe), paving the way for the selection of accessions adapted to specific environments. The panel of 225 accessions included both germplasm pools from the Andean region and breeding lines from Europe.

Gametophytic self-incompatibility in Andean capuli ( subsp. ): allelic diversity at the S-RNase locus influences normal pollen-tube formation during fertilization.

Capuli subsp. is a tree species that is widely distributed in the northern Andes. In , fruit set and productivity appears to be limited by gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI) which is controlled by the S-Locus.